CHILDREN at a preschool are saying a big ‘thank you’ to staff at a church, who stepped in to help them after the nursery roof was damaged.

Youngsters and staff from Heslington Preschool moved in to Heslington Church in December after the roof of the portable building they usually use began to leak.

Manager Wendy Porter thanked the community for stepping in to help. She said: “The church has been so helpful. They came to the rescue big time, the whole community has welcomed us. Nothing is too much trouble, they have welcomed us with open arms. The parents have also been very understanding. And it has been a wonderful experience for the children.”

She added that the children have enjoyed dancing to music played by the organist in the church as well as baking and exploring the outdoors.

More than 30 children attend the preschool, which was rated good by Ofsted in September.

Wendy added that the roof is being fixed and staff hope to be back in the building in March.